Car safety has come a long way since the invention of the automobile. From basic seat belts to complex driver-assistance technologies, safety innovations have revolutionized how we drive and how vehicles protect us. However, along with advancements comes a slew of persistent myths that mislead drivers and endanger lives. Whether it’s misinformation passed down from relatives or assumptions based on outdated facts, these myths can lead to poor driving decisions and misplaced confidence.

In this comprehensive guide, we will debunk 8 common car safety myths, empowering you with accurate knowledge to make better decisions behind the wheel and truly safeguard your journey.

Myth 1: Bigger Cars Are Always Safer

The Myth: Large vehicles like SUVs and trucks are inherently safer than compact cars.

The Reality: Size does play a role in crash dynamics—larger cars often fare better in head-on collisions due to their mass. However, vehicle safety is far more nuanced. Modern small and mid-size cars now feature high-strength materials, precision crumple zones, multiple airbags, and advanced safety technology.

Crash tests from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) evaluate crashworthiness, and many smaller cars receive top marks. Conversely, poorly rated larger vehicles may perform worse despite their size.

Moreover, SUVs are more prone to rollovers, and their size can create blind spots that contribute to accidents. In short, size alone doesn’t guarantee safety—design, engineering, and technology matter more.

Myth 2: New Cars Are Always Safer Than Older Ones

The Myth: Newer cars must be safer because they’re newer.

The Reality: New cars often feature the latest safety systems, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warnings. But this doesn’t mean all new cars are safer than older models.

A well-maintained 2016 vehicle with a five-star crash test rating can be safer than a budget 2024 car that lacks essential safety features. Some economy cars skimp on safety to keep prices low.

Also, the driver’s habits and vehicle upkeep play crucial roles. An older car with properly maintained brakes and tires is likely safer than a newer one with worn-out parts.

Safety is a combination of vehicle design, features, and responsible ownership.

Myth 3: Hands-Free Devices Eliminate Driving Distraction

The Myth: Using hands-free systems means you're driving distraction-free.

The Reality: While hands-free systems allow you to keep your hands on the wheel, they do not eliminate mental distractions. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has found that voice-command systems can distract drivers for up to 27 seconds after a task.

Cognitive distraction—thinking about something other than driving—can impair reaction times, slow decision-making, and increase crash risk.

The safest option is to avoid phone calls, texts, and infotainment system interactions altogether when the vehicle is in motion. Being mentally focused is just as critical as being physically engaged.

Myth 4: All-Wheel Drive Is Enough for Winter Driving

The Myth: AWD or 4WD systems make a car safe in all winter conditions.

The Reality: AWD improves traction when accelerating, but it does not enhance braking or cornering on icy or snowy roads. This gives drivers a false sense of security, which can lead to overconfidence.

A front-wheel drive car with winter tires will often outperform an AWD car with all-season tires in snow and ice. Winter tires are designed for low temperatures and offer superior grip.

The bottom line? Driving behavior and tire quality matter more than drivetrain type when it comes to winter safety.

Myth 5: More Airbags Always Mean More Protection

The Myth: The more airbags a vehicle has, the safer it is.

The Reality: Airbags are vital, but they’re only one part of a larger safety system that includes seat belts, crash structure, and technology. Improper airbag placement or lack of seat belt use can even increase injury risk.

Modern cars focus on strategic airbag deployment, such as side-curtain airbags and knee airbags that protect vital areas. But simply counting the number of airbags doesn’t indicate how well a vehicle will protect you.

Safety is about how all the systems work together in a crash scenario, not about quantity.

Myth 6: Red Cars Get Pulled Over More and Cost More to Insure

The Myth: Red cars are cop magnets and more expensive to insure.

The Reality: This belief is deeply ingrained but completely untrue. Insurance companies do not consider car color when determining premiums. They evaluate factors like vehicle model, age, engine size, location, driving history, and claims record.

Similarly, there is no official evidence that red cars are pulled over more often. The myth likely persists because red is a bold, eye-catching color.

Drive responsibly, regardless of your car’s color, and you’ll stay out of trouble.

Myth 7: You Should Pump the Brakes During a Skid

The Myth: When your car skids, you should pump the brakes to regain control.

The Reality: This advice applies to older cars without anti-lock braking systems (ABS). Today, almost all vehicles come equipped with ABS, which automatically pumps the brakes for you during hard stops.

If you pump the brakes in an ABS-equipped car, you may interfere with the system’s function. Instead, apply firm and steady pressure to the brake pedal and let the system do its job.

It's also wise to practice emergency stops in a safe area to familiarize yourself with how your vehicle's ABS works.

Myth 8: Driving Well Below the Speed Limit Is Always Safer

The Myth: The slower you drive, the safer you are.

The Reality: While excessive speed is dangerous, driving too slowly can also be hazardous, especially on highways. It disrupts the flow of traffic, forcing other drivers to brake or swerve, which can lead to accidents.

Safe driving means adjusting your speed to match traffic and road conditions—not simply driving slower than everyone else.

If poor visibility or road conditions warrant a slower speed, do so safely. Otherwise, driving too slowly can be just as risky as speeding.

How to Truly Maximize Vehicle Safety

Now that we've debunked the myths, here are eight real strategies to keep you safe on the road:

1. Prioritize Crash Test Ratings

Use NHTSA and IIHS to evaluate any car you're considering buying. Look for "Top Safety Picks" and 5-star ratings.

2. Maintain Your Vehicle

Regularly check brakes, tire pressure, lights, and fluid levels. A well-maintained car is a safe car.

3. Drive Defensively

Stay alert, anticipate other drivers’ actions, and keep a safe following distance. Defensive driving reduces risk.

4. Learn Your Car’s Safety Features

Understand how features like ABS, lane assist, and collision warning work. Don’t assume they operate intuitively.

5. Choose the Right Tires

Install season-appropriate tires and ensure they have proper tread depth. Tires affect every aspect of your driving.

6. Use Seat Belts Correctly

Always buckle up and ensure all passengers do the same. Airbags are only effective when used with seat belts.

7. Limit Distractions

Keep phone use to a minimum. If you must interact with your device, pull over first.

8. Take a Defensive Driving Course

Even experienced drivers benefit from refreshers. Defensive driving courses teach valuable skills for emergencies.

Conclusion

Car safety is a dynamic, multi-faceted subject. While technology continues to improve, knowledge remains your most powerful safety tool. Myths and half-truths not only cloud judgment—they can lead to dangerous habits on the road.

By understanding the truth behind common misconceptions, you equip yourself to make smarter decisions, choose better vehicles, and become a more responsible driver. Don’t let outdated beliefs steer your actions. Let facts—and good sense—guide your journey.

Stay informed, stay cautious, and drive safe.